A significant moment in the pop-punk scene is set for January 16, 2024, as the band Matchbook Romance announces the release of their first new song in two decades. Titled “Something Worse Than the Night,” the track marks a long-awaited return for the band, which has been largely absent from the music scene since their last album in 2006.
The announcement was made on the band’s official Facebook page, where they encouraged fans to pre-save the song. Accompanying the announcement was a teaser video featuring a character in a Superman costume gazing at a vintage television displaying the band’s logo. With nearly 70,000 followers on Facebook, the excitement among fans was palpable, as many expressed their enthusiasm for the new release.
Band’s Journey and Legacy
Formed in 1997 in Poughkeepsie, New York, Matchbook Romance originally performed under names such as Fizzlewink and The Getaway before officially adopting their current name in 2001. The band gained prominence during the Warped Tour and MySpace era, with lead singer and guitarist Andrew Jordan and bassist-vocalist Ryan Kienle at the forefront. Their early work with Epitaph Records yielded two albums, including the critically acclaimed “Stories and Alibis” in 2003 and their last album “Voices” in 2006.
At the time of their rise, drummer Aaron Stern had just graduated from high school, while other members were balancing their music careers with community college courses. Reflecting on their journey, Jordan recalled, “We never thought it was something that could actually come true for us.” The band’s commitment to their music led them to abandon their college plans, a decision that proved fruitful.
Matchbook Romance is known for popular tracks such as “Monsters,” which has amassed over 50 million streams on Spotify, alongside other fan favorites like “Promise” and “The Greatest Fall of All Time.” Their contributions to the genre have been recognized through features in esteemed publications and appearances on platforms like MTV Spring Break.
Future Prospects and Fan Reactions
After a hiatus following their last album, the band played sporadic shows between 2013 and 2018 but hinted at a more significant reunion with their recent posts. In December, they teased their return with a simple yet impactful message on social media: “Indefinitely,” accompanied by a photo of a microphone.
While it remains unclear whether “Something Worse Than the Night” will lead to a full-length album or additional tour dates, fans are responding enthusiastically to the news. Comments on social media reflect a blend of nostalgia and excitement, with one fan exclaiming, “Finally!!!! I am so excited!!!” Another chimed in, “We have only been waiting like 20 years,” highlighting the enduring impact of the band’s music.
The resurgence of pop-punk and emo music in recent years has also paved the way for artists like Goldfinger and Good Charlotte to return to the spotlight. As Matchbook Romance steps back into the music scene, their new song is a testament to the lasting legacy of a genre that continues to resonate with fans around the world.
